Australian retailer Kmart Group is setting its sights on expanding its product development brand Anko into Europe by appointing the first CEO for Anko Global.
Arjun Puri will become Anko Globalâs CEO following 12 years with parent company Kmart Group, where he helped build its global sourcing capabilities and supply chain ecosystem.
His new role will focus on taking Anko into international markets beyond Australia and New Zealand with strategic B2B partnerships.
Anko is a household name for Australians and in 2022 was measured as a AU$6bn (ÂŁ3.1bn) brand. It was created to provide âprivate label in-house designed productsâ for Kmart, forming 85% of its range.
Anko spans most non-food categories, including home, toys, clothing, fitness, travel, stationery and pets.
The brandâs expansion into new markets began in Canada through a partnership with Hudsonâs Bay department stores, as well as in India online through Amazon and Flipkart. Talks are âunderwayâ with retailers in Europe to enter those markets.
Kmart chief executive Ian Bailey said: âAnko is a much-loved brand that Australians and New Zealanders rely on daily.
âWith his invaluable contributions and leadership, Arjun will continue to be a driving force behind the notable success of Anko across the globe and elevate the brand to new heights. Anko can play a meaningful role for retailers in other parts of the world.â
Puri added: âBy working closely with our suppliers, building long-term relationships and utilising data and technology, we have built what we believe is a world-class brand.
âWe know from our conversations with retailers around the world that they are looking for solutions to their non-core categories and Iâm excited by the opportunity to share our Anko offer with them.â
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